Food insecurity – How Catholic Charities in Rockland makes a difference

CCCSR Food Pantry Ensures No One in Our Community is Ever Turned Away from Receiving Something to Eat

According to Feeding America, in 2020, over 31,000 Rockland residents struggled with not having enough food to eat, worsened by the economic repercussions of the COIVD-19 pandemic. Nearly half were children under 18. Catholic Charities Community Services of Rockland (CCCSR) went into overdrive in order to meet such a critical need.

“When Covid first hit, the number of households relying on our food pantry swelled by over fifty percent,” explains Dan Eudene, Executive Director of CCCSR. “We provided over 130,000 meals to more than 1,500 households, including 6,000 adults - over 1,000 of whom were elderly and over 4,000 children. We are seeing even more people, and are on track to provide over 150,000 meals this year.”

While the demand for the pantry’s assistance has remained high, CCCSR prides itself on never turning anyone away from receiving food for any reason. Let us share with you the story of the Martinez family (name changed for privacy) – a testament to the difference your support can make.

Earlier this year, our center received a visit from Maria Martinez, who approached us, clearly consumed with worry. A single mother of three, Maria had recently lost her job due to the pandemic and struggled to put food on the table. The weight of providing for her children without a steady income was taking a toll on her mental and emotional well-being. Thanks to the generous contributions, we provided the Martinez family with nutritious meals and connected Maria with resources to help her get back on her feet. Today, Maria has a new job, and her children, once anxious and uncertain, now have the energy and focus they need for their studies and daily activities. The simple act of ensuring they had food brought hope and stability back to their lives.

For some, food insecurity is an ongoing issue with no end in sight. For others, it may be a temporary situation. Either way, the CCCSR’s food pantry welcomes any Rockland County resident who needs them for a one-time or a once-a-month visit. Families receive a three-day food supply for three meals. The CCCSR Food Pantry is open three times a week (afternoons, evenings and weekends) and is adjacent to its offices at 78 Hudson Avenue in Haverstraw, New York.

It is important to note that for every $1.00 donated, CCSR is able to provide four meals thanks so the collective buying power of area food pantries. Donations can be made by visiting their website at www.ccsrockland.org and clicking the “donate now” link in the upper right-hand corner or by texting CCROCKLAND TO 21000 and following the prompts. Anyone needing services can call CCCSR at 845 942-5791.

About Catholic Charities Community Services of Rockland

CCCSR envisions a Rockland County where all individuals have the basic necessities – food, shelter and help in time of crisis in order to reach their full potential and lead a life of dignity. More information can be found at www.ccrockland.org or by calling (845) 942-5791.